We're going through a similar phase with my daughter. I found an interesting blog post about this on the autismspeaks.org site: https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/2014/02/14/ou...

I bought the book “Red Light, Green Light, Eat Right” and plan on implementing some of those strategies. I've also locked away the snack food. My plans are put the snacks in portion control containers and those will be the ones in the pantry. One day's worth of snacks at a time and I'll refill them in the mornings when lunches are made.

So one of the reason why these children are craving foods especially junk food is because they are nutrient deficient. Another reason is they might be on medication and certain medications makes them eat a lot. There are certain supplements that will help them curved the cravings. When you feed them nutrients dense food they will crave junk food less. Crowd in and crowd out. Meaning give them enough of the good foods and eventually they will crave less of the junky foods

I really relate to your issue with over eating our daughter is very food driven at the moment, she is 13. She is struggling with peer pressure related to her self image and simply wanting to always plow through the food in the house, especially sweet and salty choices.
We have made the choice for now to remind her when she is over eating without limitation, in the hopes she will self regulate. I joined us all up to the local gym for my birthday and I invite her to join me, at the gym she sees people of all different sizes and ages. So far she likes it enough to watch her Youtube star on the treadmill. After that I can offer a healthy snack.
Again to avoid a big struggle and more obsession over eating we are trying help her see some things herself.
Everyone keep the ideas flowing!
Denise

This has really helped me. My 9yr old sneaks food in his room and it is a big problem. It doesn't matter how much I give him. It's always sweets or starchy foods. I was feeling bad about thinking of putting a lock on the fridge! I've locked up one cabinet and now have a shelving unit in my bedroom and lock my door. I have a lock on the hall closet that has medicines and knives. I feel like everyone is suffering because he can't control himself. I do find that he eats more when he's bored.
I'm just glad to know it's not just him. Guess I won't fuss at him too much😔

I know I’m late in answering here, and I didn’t read through all comments, but I did want to add this, I apologize if it has already been said. This is the age where MOST boys are going to start eating or being hungry almost constantly. Their bodies are changing and they need more food. I have three sons and from ages 11-13 each grew a minimum of 6 inches. Just something to keep in mind. It may be just part of the normal growth process. Of course, healthy snacking and meals should be provided, but he may truly be needing those extra calories. 🙂